How do I avoid communication barriers at training?

Cricket Australia's guide (with Sport Inclusion Australia) lists these tips:

• Minimise background noise and distractions, and avoid unfamiliar or chaotic environments.
• Avoid sarcasm, jargon and figurative language. Use simple, clear, direct language.
• Face participants when giving instructions.
• Be patient and allow time to process information and respond. Do not rush instructions.
• Support spoken instructions with visual aids (signs, pictures), demonstrations, gestures and facial expressions.
• Ask specific, targeted questions, and check in regularly about each person's communication preferences.

Some people find social aspects of communication challenging, such as non-verbal cues, eye contact, turn-taking or personal space, or abstract language like sarcasm and jokes. The guide says to approach misunderstandings with patience and adjust your communication.

Source: Cricket Australia Disability Inclusion Resource Guide (2025).